The British-Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) is designed for certain nationals who wish to travel between the United Kingdom and Ireland on a single visa. Under the BIVS, eligible travelers can enter either the UK or Ireland and move freely between the two countries without needing separate visas. This guide explains the requirements, application process, and benefits of the BIVS visa, making it easier for travelers to understand this unique visa scheme.
1. What Is the BIVS Visa?
The British-Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) is a visa arrangement between the United Kingdom and Ireland that allows visitors to travel between both countries on a single visa. It was introduced to facilitate easier movement and promote tourism across the UK and Ireland for travelers from eligible countries, such as India and China.
Travelers can enter either the UK or Ireland and then cross the border to the other country without needing an additional visa, provided they meet the requirements of the BIVS.
2. Eligibility for the BIVS Visa
The BIVS is currently available to citizens of specific countries, primarily:
- China
- India
Other nationalities are not eligible for the scheme at this time and must apply for separate visas for each country. Travelers must also meet the entry requirements for both the UK and Ireland.
3. Key Features and Benefits of the BIVS Visa
The BIVS visa offers several benefits for eligible travelers:
- Single Visa for Dual Entry: The BIVS allows entry to both the UK and Ireland on a single visa, saving time and reducing application fees.
- Simplified Travel Between Borders: Once inside either country, travelers can cross the UK-Ireland border freely without needing additional immigration checks or permits.
- Enhanced Tourism Options: The scheme opens up opportunities for tourists to explore attractions in both countries, including cities like London, Dublin, Belfast, and Galway.
4. Types of Visas Under the BIVS Scheme
The BIVS can be applied for as part of standard visitor visas for both countries. There are two main visa types that operate under the BIVS:
- UK Visit Visa with BIVS: Issued by the UK, allowing travel to both the UK and Ireland.
- Irish Visit Visa with BIVS: Issued by Ireland, allowing travel to both Ireland and the UK.
Both visa types allow holders to travel within the UK and Ireland, but travelers must first enter the country that issued the visa before traveling to the other country.
5. How to Apply for a BIVS Visa
The application process for a BIVS visa depends on the issuing country (either the UK or Ireland):
- Choose Your Point of Entry: Decide if you’ll enter through the UK or Ireland first, as this will determine the issuing country for your visa.
- Apply for the Visa: Complete either a UK visitor visa application or an Irish visit visa application. Make sure the BIVS option is selected, as not all visas automatically include this.
- Submit Required Documents: The typical required documents include a valid passport, proof of financial support, travel itinerary, and proof of accommodation. Additional requirements may apply.
- Pay the Visa Fee: The visa fees vary by country, so check the fee schedules on the relevant UK or Irish visa application websites.
- Attend the Interview (if required): Some applicants may be required to attend an interview, depending on the embassy or consulate requirements.
- Receive Visa with BIVS Stamp: If approved, your visa will display the BIVS stamp, allowing entry to both the UK and Ireland.
6. Travel Rules for BIVS Visa Holders
Once you have your BIVS visa, there are specific rules to follow:
- First Point of Entry: Travelers must first enter the country that issued the visa (either the UK or Ireland) before crossing into the other.
- Single Visa Validity: The visa’s validity applies to both countries, but travelers must exit before the visa’s expiration date.
- No Work or Study: The BIVS visa is for short-term tourism and business visits only. It does not permit work or long-term study.
7. Required Documents for BIVS Visa Application
Applicants will need to gather certain documents to support their visa application, including:
- Passport: Valid for the entire stay, with blank pages for visa stamps.
- Proof of Financial Means: Recent bank statements or income documents to show you can support yourself.
- Travel Itinerary: A planned itinerary showing your expected travel route, including entry and exit points.
- Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservations or a letter from a host in either the UK or Ireland.
- Return Ticket: Proof of a return or onward ticket to confirm that you intend to leave at the end of your visit.
8. Processing Time and Fees for BIVS Visa
The processing times for a BIVS visa may vary:
- UK Visit Visa Processing: Typically takes around 15 working days, but times can vary.
- Irish Visit Visa Processing: Also around 15 working days, though processing times may be longer during peak seasons.
Visa fees depend on the issuing country, so check the latest fees on the UK or Irish immigration websites. Fees are generally similar to standard visitor visa fees.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for the BIVS visa?
Currently, the BIVS visa is available only to citizens of India and China.
2. Do I need separate visas for the UK and Ireland?
No, if you have a BIVS visa, you can travel between both countries on a single visa, but you must enter the country that issued your visa first.
3. Can I work on a BIVS visa?
No, the BIVS visa only allows for short-term tourism or business visits, not employment or long-term study.
4. How do I know if my visa is a BIVS visa?
The visa will display a “BIVS” endorsement, indicating it allows travel between the UK and Ireland.
5. Can I stay in the UK longer than in Ireland or vice versa?
You can split your stay as you wish, but the total stay must be within the visa’s validity period.
6. Do I need a new BIVS visa if I want to return?
Yes, the BIVS visa is single-entry, meaning a new visa is required if you leave and wish to return.